Training slides to explain what is decomposition

1. Decomposition © 2001 Alvin Chew Rainforest Conservation Program

2. plant nutrients = chemical substances which plants need Examples: nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium apart from carbon dioxide, oxygen and water

4. decomposition = breaking down dead plants or animals (or parts of them) to release plant nutrients Example: a fallen branch rots away and the nutrients are absorbed by the roots below it.

5. decomposer = an animal which feeds on dead plants or animals (or parts of them) Example: a termite, a millipede or an earthworm

7. Why are decomposers important ? Most of the plant material in a tropical forest goes into the decomposition food chain